Zelensky says Ukraine will boost weapons purchases from Germany amid chancellor's visit

In a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Kiev, President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that Ukraine intends to purchase additional weapons and equipment from Germany and that cooperation on drone manufacturing in Germany is under way, with Ukrainian specialists offering training and expertise. He also said both sides are discussing the broader use of energy-protection technologies. The visit came as Russian forces launched large-scale drone and missile strikes, including heavy bombardments in the Odessa oblast that caused fires but no reported deaths.

Ukrainian air defenses reported intercepting the majority of Russian drones launched overnight. Separate diplomatic moves were noted, with India seeking a larger mediating role and the United States proposing a trilateral technical meeting by the end of October.